Odisha’s Real-Life Hero: Retired Official Builds Lifeline Bridge for His Village

Gangadhar Rout, a retired government official from Odisha in his 60s, turned his lifelong dream into reality by building a bridge that transformed the fate of his village, Kanpur. For decades, monsoon rains had isolated Kanpur, cutting it off from the fertile lands across the Salandi river. A long-promised bridge project had remained a stalled vision, with incomplete construction sitting idly despite initial funding.

Determined to end the annual hardship faced by his fellow villagers, Rout made a life-altering decision. At first, he considered using his savings to buy a car for himself. However, the sight of the neglected, half-finished bridge rekindled his resolve to prioritize his community’s needs over personal comforts. He made a bold choice: investing his retirement benefits to finish the project that officials had abandoned.

With his nephew’s help, Rout embarked on the ambitious venture. They surveyed bridges in other areas, studied their structure, and procured materials independently. In 2016, Rout invested Rs 10 lakh from his retirement funds and began constructing the 270-foot bridge that would link Kanpur to its farmlands and provide essential access during the monsoon.

“I thought that if I don’t build it, no one else will,” Rout shared in an interview with Hindustan Times. His determination and sacrifice paid off as the completed bridge now stands tall, serving as a lifeline and a symbol of hope for the community.

Locals have expressed profound gratitude for Rout’s dedication. “Nowadays, people run the extra mile to make money. Gangadhar is a man of the rare gene who defies the stereotypes,” said one villager in an interview with The New Indian Express.

Today, the bridge is more than just a structure—it’s a testament to Rout’s selfless service and unwavering commitment to his village.